Central Mass. Habitat for Humanity truck stolen, burned

Wednesday

WORCESTER — The local Habitat for Humanity chapter is reeling today after learning the truck used to collect donations was stolen Tuesday night and set ablaze on Grove Street.

The 16-foot box truck, covered with the Habitat for Humanity – MetroWest/Greater Worcester logo, was taken Tuesday night while it was parked outside the organization's store at 11 Distributor Road, off Gold Star Boulevard.

Police and fire personnel were called to the area of 454 Grove St. — less than a mile from the store — and discovered the truck engulfed in flames around 9 p.m. Tuesday, according to police reports. Firefighters put out the flames.

Police checked the area and couldn't find anyone responsible or any witnesses. The theft and fire remain under investigation.

The truck is a pivotal part of the organization's ReStore, which accepts donations and sells used furniture, building materials and appliances. The store is an important revenue generator to help pay for the homes built by volunteers and Habitat for Humanity workers.

"We're all just heartbroken over the news. First thing in the morning it is tough to hear that," said Lauren Grimanis, development associate for the organization. "The ReStore provides really crucial funds."

ReStore workers discovered the truck was missing around 9 a.m. Wednesday. They found broken glass where the truck had been parked in the area of the passenger's side window. Police were called.

Ms. Grimanis said that the truck contained roughly $630 worth of appliances for the store. Also lost were several items used to move donated goods. It is the only truck the organization owns. It was used to collect and move items from the 42 communities in the agency's service area.

Habitat for Humanity is asking the public for help to get a new truck. Ms. Grimanis said the organization hopes a new truck can be donated or loaned to Habitat for Humanity.